Chapter 23 Summary

The next day, Mattie awakens to discover that Nell has soiled the bed. Mattie then spends the morning washing laundry and cleaning the house - Eliza has already left to help other people in the city. Mattie worries about her mother and then considers taking Nell to the orphanage, and decides it is the only proper course of action. In the afternoon, Eliza returns and she helps Mattie take Nell to the orphanage. However, when the arrive at the orphanage they are told that it is already full well beyond its capacity, and the orphanage matron implores Mattie to retain Nell, explaining that the over-taxed orphanage cannot supply the needs of all of the children. Mattie is happy to retain Nell because she has grown quite fond of the child the short period they have been together.